Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a behavioral therapy that is commonly part of an addiction treatment plan at addiction treatment centers. Behavioral therapies are ones where you wholly participate in the elements of the therapy and take an active role in the goals and the outcome. This evidence-based behavioral therapy is one of many approaches that may be utilized as part of a customized treatment plan for each individual person. DBT builds self-awareness and helps to control emotions. Every therapeutic modality that is part of a treatment plan helps support the end goal of a successful recovery. For more information on a dialectical behavior therapy program or other addiction therapy programs at Apex Recovery San Diego, reach out to our team today at 619.458.3435.
What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
DBT is an evidence-based psychotherapy that has become an integral part of substance use and mental health conditions. It is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on practical ways to change behaviors and patterns in thinking. Having constructive ways to deal with triggers, traumas, and strained relationships gives people tools they can use at any stage of their recovery throughout their life. DBT is also highly effective as part of dual diagnosis treatment when co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders exist.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
DBT is a very practical therapeutic approach. It starts with addressing the larger challenges someone is facing, then addresses skills to manage everyday life and rebuilding relationships, and finally, it focuses on letting go of the negative forces in your life and focusing on the positive.
There are four main parts to a DBT strategy:
1.Fostering Strong Relationships
The reality is that addiction can wreak havoc on relationships. At the same time, a mental health condition can cause one to withdraw from people they are close to and become reclusive. Focusing on your own self-worth can help you foster healthy relationships that you can count on to support you in your recovery.
2. Mind Over Matter
The past is the past, and worrying about the future can put undue stress on anyone. Living in the now and not overthinking things is a key focus of DBT. Through mindfulness techniques, DBT works to help you focus on the present and be more aware of your own self—as well as others.
3. Taking Control
Wanting to control every second of every day can be too much to manage. There is too much that is out of one’s control, and DBT works to reinforce this reality. Through practical exercises, DBT helps you to learn the skills needed to let go of control. This also serves to manage issues with impulsivity, especially as it relates to reactions tied to strong emotions.
4. Emotional Stability
Emotions can be good or bad. Managing them takes work. Strong emotions can lead to impulsive actions, poor judgment, and even destructive actions. Working to recognize what emotions can lead to bad choices will help you rethink and redirect your thoughts and actions for more positive outcomes.
Learn More About Apex Recovery’s DBT Program for Addiction Treatment
At Apex Recovery San Diego, we offer a variety of therapeutic modalities to build customized treatment plans for each individual. This holistic approach combines traditional therapies alongside behavioral therapies like DBT, as well as experiential therapies like meditation, massage, or music.
Apex Recovery offers a variety of therapies as part of treatment in San Diego. These include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Individual therapy
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
- Hypnosis therapy
- Massage therapy
- Meditative therapy
- Relapse prevention therapy
- Psychotherapy
- Music therapy
- Trauma therapy
Reach out to the Apex Recovery San Diego treatment team today at 619.458.3435 to learn more about treatment options in San Diego.